Redskins Make Two More Cuts as Deadline Approaches

TAMPA, FL - AUGUST 29: Guard Adam Gettis #73 of the Washington Redskins watches play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers August 29, 2013 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images)Guard Adam Gettis #73 of the Washington Redskins watches play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers August 29, 2013 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images)

That brings the team to a total of 12 roster moves prior to Tuesday’s 4 p.m. NFL deadline to trim the roster to 75 players. Washington still needs to cut two more to meet that quota. Both lockers for Gettis and Shepherd were empty as reporters had access to the room before Monday’s afternoon practice.

Gettis, 25, was a fifth-round pick in 2012. He was a reserve guard who appeared in 13 games last year, but had little chance to unseat fellow backups Josh LeRibeus or rookie Spencer Long. Shawn Lauvao and Chris Chester are the expected starters at guard.

Shepherd was an undrafted free agent from North Dakota State. But he lost out in a crowded fight for cornerback spots. Starters DeAngelo Hall and David Amerson were locks to make the roster. Veteran Tracy Porter is expected to handle slot duties in nickel coverage.

Rookie Bashaud Breeland was a fourth-round pick in May and has shown well so far during preseason. Richard Crawford and Chase Minnifield were both ahead of Shepherd on the depth chart at corner, though neither player is a lock to make the final roster.

The deadline for teams to submit a final 53-man roster for the opening week of the season is Aug. 30 at 4 p.m.